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    Hiking in United Kingdom

    Hikes in United Kingdom

    The United Kingdom has long been regarded as one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, offering historic cities, beautiful castles, quaint villages, and some really spectacular natural attractions. This beautiful country also has a lot to offer in terms of adventure travel, with more and more people coming to the UK each year to experience its magnificent mountains, valleys, and coastline.

    The United Kingdom may be a small country, but it certainly packs a punch when it comes to outdoor activities! This small collection of islands offers a whole host of amazing things to do, from hiking and backpacking to climbing, scrambling, and cycling.

    The UK is made up of four nations, England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, each with its own particular charm. Rugged Scotland has much to offer hikers and backpackers, with some of the highest mountains in the UK, and many multi-day backpacking treks, while England is a hub for cycling and road biking, in addition to boasting some fascinating city walks. Climbers flock to Wales and Northern Ireland every year to take advantage of the beautiful mountains and coastal cliffs.

    To help you plan your next adventure holiday to the United Kingdom, we’ve put together all the information you’ll need. You’ll find helpful tips, recommendations for places to stay and visit, and our guide to all the best walks and adventure activities in the UK.

    15 Greatest Hikes in the United Kingdom

    The United Kingdom is perhaps one of the most idyllic settings for a walk, with rolling green hills, picturesque ponds and charming, quiet villages. Whether you’re looking for something short and sweet, or long and challenging, we’ve got you covered on your next adventure through the U.K. countryside.

    • Ravenscar and Robin Hood’s Bay: This incredible hike takes you from the tip of the Ravenscar cliffs to the charming town of Robin Hood’s Bay. With incredible views from start to end, follow the loop back to discover the historic old Scarborough-Whitby railway.
    • Scafell Pike: Walk along the road less travelled to explore the highest peak in England--Scafell Pike. This trail is decidedly more pretty than the popular Wasdale Head hike and far less crowded.
    • The Great Ridge and Win Hill: Considered the most walked ridge line in England, this hike makes all the bucket lists for a reason. It connects some of the most famed summits in the region, Lose Hill (476 m) and Mam Tor (517 m), while also conquering Win Hill.
    • Hole of Horcum: Featuring the already impressive Hole of Horcum, this walk is extra special as you hike through the magical moorlands and pass through the charming town of Levisham.
    • Mam Tor: This easy, circular route is perfect for families with young children and offers easy access to the Peak District’s most iconic view. At the top of the ascent, lookout over Vale of Edale, Peveril Castle and the Hope Valley for stunning landscapes.
    • Helvellyn Walk: This walk remains a classic and for good reason. This challenging trail takes in some of the most beautiful sections of England’s Lake District and the scenic town of Glenridding—which looks straight out of a postcard.
    • Kinder Scout: Prepare for an epic adventure on this hike conquering the most difficult terrain of the Dark Peak with peaty trails, craggy peaks and deep cloughs.
    • Ben Venue Walk from Loch Achray: The Ben Venue Walk tops our list as one of the best hikes out there! With exceptional stunning views across Scotland’s Loch Katrine, Ben Lomond and beyond, this hike should go to the top of your bucket list.
    • The Great Trossachs Path 1: This section of the famed Great Trossachs Path covers exceptional viewpoints over Loch Lomond to Trossachs Pier at the head of Loch Katrine. Pop into the local tea shop or unwind at the rustic Stronachlachar Lodge at the mid-way point in your two-day journey.
    • Ben Lomond: While an extremely popular mountain, we recommend taking the less popular route for the descent, which makes for an interesting return from the summit and a much quieter hike.
    • Loch Venachar Walk: Head out on this long, but relatively flat trail to take in the perimeter of Loch Venachar. Enjoy beautiful views of the waterfront and surrounding mountains as you walk through the countryside.
    • Dovedale: Enjoy a variety of quirky oddities on this Dovedale hike, as you wander past unique limestone features, like Lover's Leap, Tissington Spires and Dove Holes. Then, summit Bailey Hill for impressive views.
    • Snowdon Horseshoe: Be forewarned, this hike is best left to experienced hikers. Take in the incredible views of Crib Goch ridge—considered one of the best in Whales—for a memorable hike. Come prepared for crazy winds and snowy conditions at times.
    • CWM Idwal Walk: This short, but steep hike tempts with the promise of a stunning lake and multiple waterfalls just beyond the peak. Plus, there is a shop for a sweet treat to enjoy at the end of the trail.
    • Barmouth Panorama Hike: Be dazzled by panoramic views from the tip top of Barmouth on this spectacular hike. Lookout over the Afon Mawddach estuary, up and down the Welsh coast, and out to Cardigan Bay from the top of the ridge.

    When is the Best Time to Hike in the United Kingdom

    The summer is a particularly fantastic time to hike in the United Kingdom, with the most amount of days promising sunshine and warmth. As a bonus, it never gets overly hot in the U.K. throughout the summer, so you don’t have to worry about heat exhaustion or planning the timing of your hike just right. The spring also offers pleasant weather, but be prepared with an umbrella and wellies in the case it rains (which it often does!).

    Best Regions to Hike in the United Kingdom

    There is no shortage of breathtaking spots to hike across the United Kingdom. With multiple countries under one umbrella, you’re sure to be delighted with the options for an adventurous hiking holiday. In England, discover the natural beauty of Chiltern Hills, the famed pools of the Lake District, the stunning, rugged landscape of the North York Moors, the rolling, unexpected hills of South Downs, or the oldest national park in the U.K.--the Peak District. In Scotland, the gorgeous Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park awaits exploration. And in Wales, the magic of hiking in Snowdonia continues to delight hikers each year.

    Other Activities in the United Kingdom

    While most don’t first and foremost think of the United Kingdom as an outdoor adventure paradise, let us assure you, they’re wrong. The U.K. offers a fantastic vacation to those seeking epic hiking adventures, as well as fascinating and historic city walks. It’s also revered by cyclists to be one of the best and most beautiful destinations for a cycling holiday, where you’ll work up a sweat peddling from pub to pub. For more remote adventures, there are plenty of options for mountain biking, trekking and climbing--regardless of skill level.

    United Kingdom's Adventure Tours

    If you’d rather skip the headache of planning your own trip, why not let 10Adventures help? With our wide-range of tours in the United Kingdom, check out England or Scotland for fantastic options. All you have to do is pack your bag—the rest is taken care of! From walking the Cotswold Way in its entirety to cycling the Scottish Isles of Arran, Islay, and Jura, our 10Adventure tour options are guaranteed to be epic and worry-free.

    How to Plan a Trip to the United Kingdom

    Ready to pack your bags and hit the trails across the United Kingdom? We’ve got you covered with our complete, local guides! From the Chiltern Hills, to the Lake District, to North York Moors National Park, to South Downs National Park, to the Peak District, to Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, to Snowdonia—we took out all the guesswork, leaving more time for hitting the trails.

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    Hiking regions in United Kingdom

    Best Hikes in United Kingdom

    Showing 41 to 60 of 1,000+
      Open details for Haystacks Walk

      Haystacks Walk

      Moderate
      8.1 km
      505 m
      3-4h

      The Haystacks Walk is a true gem of the Lake District and has a unique feel compared to most of the other walks in the area. While out on this beautifully scenic route, you will be exposed to views across the rugged terrain of surrounding mountains, Buttermere, and the nearby Honister Pass, which makes for a memorable afternoon on the trails. It is noted as one of the favourite places for Lakes pioneer Alfred Wainwright.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.7
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Glynde and Mount Caburn

      Glynde and Mount Caburn

      Moderate
      10.5 km
      277 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The Glynde and Mount Caburn walk is a South Downs gem. Hike along an undulating trail from the quaint village of Glynde up to the top of Mount Caburn. From this high, South Downs vista, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views and stunning scenery. After Mount Caburn, the trail goes across the Lewes golf course and over Saxon Cross.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.6
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Ashridge Boundary Trail

      Ashridge Boundary Trail

      Very Hard
      28.3 km
      342 m
      6-8.5h

      This walk gives walkers complete immersion in the Chiltern Hills. Expect to see dear, red kites, and other wildlife as well as stunning views from Ivinghoe Beacon, the highest point of the trail.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.6
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Lochan Spling

      Lochan Spling

      Very Easy
      5.9 km
      81 m
      1.5-2h

      Lochan Spling is a great Scottish walk for the whole family. Although just a short distance from the busy tourist town of Aberfoyle, you will find yourself in a calm and quiet spot surrounded by spectacular Scottish scenery.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.6
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk

      Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk

      Moderate
      15.1 km
      739 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales that will take you up into the mountains for stunning views over two charming lakes. While out walking the trail, you will make your way to the tranquil shores of Llyn y Fan Fach and the Carmarthen Fans, traversing the summits of Waun Lefrith, Bannau Sir Gaer, Fan Foel, and Fan Brycheiniog before arriving at the shores of Llyn y Fan Fawr. Simply put, this is one of the best walking routes in Brecon Beacons National Park.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Alnwick Castle and Gardens Walk

      Alnwick Castle and Gardens Walk

      Easy
      4.7 km
      122 m
      1-1.5h

      The Alnwick Castle and Gardens Walk is an amazing family-friendly excursion in Alnwick, Northumberland that will take you around the grounds of a Norman Period castle along the River Aln. While out walking the trail, you will explore the streets of Alnwick and skirt around the perimeter of the castle grounds, taking in views of Alnwick Castle as you walk along the banks of the River Aln. This short walking route is perfectly suited for a fun afternoon stroll in Northern England.

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      Open details for Crib Goch Hike

      Crib Goch Hike

      Hard
      9.8 km
      970 m
      4.5-6h

      The Crib Goch hike in Snowdonia National Park is a thrilling climb across jagged spires and razor-thin ridges to the peak of Snowden. This climb may not be for the faint of heart, but it’s a rewarding challenge for those looking to sharpen their scrambling skills and enjoy expansive views over the green-laden mountains below. This route can also be done as a loop to enjoy the serene lakeshores below the adrenaline-pumping summit.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Bolderwood Circular Walk

      Bolderwood Circular Walk

      Very Easy
      2.7 km
      61 m
      0.5-1h

      There are few New Forest routes as charming as the Bolderwood Circular Walk. With a variety of well-signed paths that lead through an impressive stretch of forest, it’s the perfect outing for outdoor lovers of all ages. Enjoy a stroll through the beech, oak, and sweet chestnut trees, crossing over rivers and exploring the woods. Don’t miss the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, where whole herds of fallow deer mingle and wait for feedings from the local keeper! This is a very accessible walk that everyone can enjoy

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Newark Park Loop

      Newark Park Loop

      Easy
      3.9 km
      142 m
      1-1.5h

      The Newark Park Loop makes its way through the 700 acres of the Newark estate. This easy trail wanders through the woodlands of the Cotswolds escarpment and across endless meadows full of wildflowers. The trail also offers beautiful views of the Newark house and garden, which makes it the perfect way to extend your visit to the estate.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Ben Vrackie Walk

      Ben Vrackie Walk

      Hard
      10.0 km
      787 m
      4-5.5h

      Lording over the town of Pitlochry, which is nestled at its foot, sits Ben Vrackie (841 m), a classified Scottish Corbett and makes for a cracking hillwalk in Cairngorms National Park. The 10.0 km walk can be done in under 4 hours and is a great way to seize some incredible views across the park following a well-worn path. The ascent is steep, but walkers will be well rewarded by the views from the summit. It’s a popular hillwalk in the area, particularly for those visiting or staying in the town of Pitlochry.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Swinton Bivouac Walk

      Swinton Bivouac Walk

      Hard
      24.0 km
      677 m
      6-8.5h

      The beautiful Swinton Bivouac Walk challenges you with its length but rewards you with stunning views of Roundhill and the Leighton Reservoir. You will also visit the quaint village of Ilton and pass Bothy Hut, a great place to take a break and enjoy a picnic. This path will take you along The Six Dales Trail, which showcases beautiful open pastures and old stone walls and farmhouses.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Malham Cove Circular Walk

      Malham Cove Circular Walk

      Moderate
      10.6 km
      368 m
      3-4h

      The Malham Cove Circular Walk is an amazing place to explore. The Gordale Scar was created by melting glaciers and houses beautiful waterfalls full of lime that pour onto the rocks below, creating a brown tufa. In the warmer months, you can also explore the vibrant wildflowers that fill this path.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Haytor Quarry Loop

      Haytor Quarry Loop

      Easy
      3.2 km
      131 m
      1-1.5h

      The Haytor Quarry Loop is a great walking route in Dartmoor National Park that will lead you uphill across some rugged terrain for amazing views across the park. While out walking the trail, you will climb up to the rocky summit of Haytor before making your way through a historic quarry that was mined for gritstone in the early 19th Century. This is a fun walk for those who enjoy scenic views and local history.

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      Open details for Hartland Point Walk

      Hartland Point Walk

      Easy
      4.0 km
      122 m
      1-1.5h

      Walking along Hartland Point is a wonderful way to experience the scenic coastal areas that can be found in Devon. While out on the trail, you will meander along the rugged coastline and pass by a radar station, lighthouse, and war memorial, all while taking in some spectacular views across the Bristol Channel. What a fantastic way to spend a lazy weekend afternoon on the trails.

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      No Reviews
      Open details for Lorna Doone Valley Trail

      Lorna Doone Valley Trail

      Easy
      6.0 km
      180 m
      1.5-2h

      Walking the Lorna Doone Valley Trail is a fun and scenic experience that will expose you to some charming countryside views set in Exmoor National Park. While out walking the trail, you will pass through picturesque fields and serene forests, as you follow along the winding banks of Badgworthy Water. This is a lovely route that is perfectly suited for a relaxing weekend stroll.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for South West Coast Path: Tintagel to Pentireglaze

      South West Coast Path: Tintagel to Pentireglaze

      Moderate
      20.4 km
      826 m
      6-8.5h

      The South West Coast Path: Tintagel to Pentireglaze is a fantastic seaside adventure in the southwest corner of England that offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the rugged terrain of the coast and pass by charming villages along the edge of the water that offer the perfect place to sit out and enjoy the views. What a wonderful way to spend a day outdoors!

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Rathlin Island: Church Bay Loop

      Rathlin Island: Church Bay Loop

      Moderate
      9.5 km
      195 m
      2-3h

      The Rathlin Island: Church Bay Loop is a fantastic walking route that will produce some lovely views of Northern Ireland and the surrounding sea. While out walking the trail, you will pass through the village of Church Bay and skirt around several charming loughs, as you make your way to the southern tip of the island at the Rue Point Lighthouse. Walkers should keep in mind that this trail is only accessible by ferry from Ballycastle and should plan their adventure accordingly.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Ben Venue Walk from Loch Achray

      Ben Venue Walk from Loch Achray

      Hard
      14.3 km
      780 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The walk to Ben Venue from Loch Achray is an absolutely exceptional hike. If you get lucky with the weather, the views across Loch Katrine, Ben Lomond and beyond are outstanding. It’s a steady climb with several steeper sections where you need to use your hands, but this is one of our all-time favorite walks in the UK.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Coed y Brenin Walk

      Coed y Brenin Walk

      Easy
      8.4 km
      295 m
      2.5-3h

      The Coed y Brenin circular walk is a loop trail in Snowdonia National Park, passing through ancient green forest along the Mawddach River. This relatively flat trail reveals charming waterfalls and lush greenery, providing a peaceful and low-effort escape into nature. The Coed y Brenin trail is well-maintained, making it an easy pick for those with young children.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Scafell Pike Walk

      Scafell Pike Walk

      Hard
      15.2 km
      896 m
      5-7h

      The wonderful Scafell Pike walk takes you to the highest peak in England and is much prettier and more interesting than the quicker route from Wasdale Head. This walk allows you to conquer England's highest mountain while enjoying breathtaking views of the Lake District.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.9
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.

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